WINSTON-SALEM, NC - Every time Fayetteville State and Winston-Salem State face each other, emotions run high. This evening was a prime example, for the Lady Rams defended its home court until Fayetteville State (21-3 overall, 13-1 CIAA, 7-1 Division) seized final control of the game with two minutes left for a 59-55 victory.

Winston-Salem State (12-12, 7-7, 3-5) controlled the majority of the game with three lead changes and eight score ties. The Lady Rams let an 11-point lead in the first half slip to a tied score of 25 at intermission.

Shuanda Ashford (senior - Fayetteville, NC) led the way with 17 points and nine rebounds along with the help of Kristen Hanzer (senior - Youngsville, NC) who netted 13 and four assists. Alicia Person (senior - Henderson, NC) contributed eight points and four much needed steals.

Keyrra Gillespie scored 14 for the Lady Rams while Dionna Scott and Taylar Wells had 13 and 10; respectfully.

WSSU jumped ahead once again in the second half creating a 12-point lead with 14:11; but the Lady Rams watched it dissipate as the local morning snow.

FSU out-performed the Lady Rams in the paint 32-30 and second-chance points 10-8. The Lady Broncos shot a better 47.8% (22-of-46) from the field; compared to 37.7% (20-of-53). Fayetteville State had a down night at the free throw line shooting 48.1% (13-of-27). WSSU was 11-of-16 for 68.8%.

Defense was the name of the game for Winston-Salem State. The Lady Rams played a tight man-to-man with limited passing lanes. WSSU forced a total of 21 turnovers which led to 19 points.

Fayetteville State countered the Lady Rams strategy forcing them into 18 turnovers which led to 17 points. The Lady Broncos climbed back into game with patience on the outside, taking only seven three-pointers, and waiting for the opportunities down low.

The Lady Rams will play host to Shaw University on Wednesday, February 20 for Senior Night at 5:30 pm. Winston-Salem State will host Johnson C. Smith.